Ed Rhee

Electrical outlets in the U.S. output between 100-120V, while many other countries output between 200-240V. Not all gadgets require a voltage converter, though—you may be able to get by with just a simple plug adapter.

A plug adapter (like the ones shown above) will allow you to use your device without the need to convert electricity, but the charger has to be rated at both voltages. If your device doesn't support dual voltages, you'll need a converter. Weblog Make Tech Easier suggests you check the print on your charger to find out if it supports both voltages.

The plug for your charger should tell you if it's able to work at both voltages. The charger on my phone, for example, reads "Input: 100-240V AC." That means I can use it in practically any country without a voltage adapter. I just buy a $2 plug and that's it!